Be Ready for Bad Weather

So far, this winter has been fairly mild but as we head into January, we can expect low temperatures and the possibility of ice and snow. Indeed, bad weather such as flooding or severe winds can disrupt work at any time of the year. It pays to be prepared.

If the workplace is able to open, staff are expected to try to make it in to work unless otherwise informed by their employer. If they do not arrive at work they are not entitled to pay.

Employees who do arrive ready to work have the right to be paid. However, there may be no work available or there may be a need to temporarily shut down.

An individual’s ability to get to work may depend on factors beyond their control. Perhaps there is travel disruption, safety concerns or there are issues with dependants such as school closures. Employers need to consider:

how all staff can be treated fairly,

an incident / emergency communications plan

what plans can ensure business continuity.

Some employers offer:

home working

short notice annual leave

using banked time-in-lieu

opportunities to make up the lost time

Action:

We advise that you include a ‘Bad Weather Policy’ in your Employment Handbook so that management and staff are clear on your company’s protocol should severe weather strike.

Consider how you can communicate with your workforce in the event of severe weather

If you would like guidance on implementing this in your workplace, contact us at Rob Bryan Associates Limited Main Office: 01462 732444 www.robbryanassociates.org.uk

Employment Matters… Rob Bryan has been providing business advice and human resources consultancy services since 2000. Rob and his team all formerly worked for Professional Personnel Consultants who were acquired by Croner CCH. Our Head Office is in Bedfordshire but we work with companies all over England. Employers today face ... Continue reading →